Testing a quieter delivery schedule

Several shops on a busy street have agreed to test a shared delivery schedule. Previously, each shop arranged its own deliveries, which often meant several vans arrived at the same time. This blocked loading spaces and delayed buses. Under the new arrangement, shops receive deliveries during separate morning time slots. Drivers may wait at a nearby depot until their slot begins. The trial is intended to reduce congestion without limiting the amount of stock shops can receive. Shop owners will record delays, customer complaints and additional costs during the eight-week trial. They will then meet transport staff to decide whether the schedule should continue or be adjusted.